Understanding Feng Shui and Its Significance
As we welcome the Chinese New Year, it's a perfect time to explore the ancient practice of Feng Shui and its profound impact on our living spaces. Feng Shui, meaning 'wind' and 'water' in Chinese, is the art of harmonizing with the surrounding environment. Its principles are deeply rooted in the flow of energy, or Chi, and how it interacts with our daily lives. I find Feng Shui's blend of spirituality and practicality especially intriguing. This blog delves into the essence of Feng Shui, offering insights into creating a harmonious living space in alignment with the upcoming Year of the Dragon.
Decluttering: The Easiest Step to Freeing Energy
Feng Shui is more than just an interior design concept; it's about balancing the unseen energy in our environment. The fundamental belief is that when energy flows freely, it positively influences our health, wealth, and overall well-being. Conversely, stuck or stale energy can lead to negative outcomes.
One of the simplest yet most effective Feng Shui practices is decluttering. A cluttered space can obstruct the flow of Chi, creating stagnation and discomfort. By keeping your living space clutter free, you encourage a free flow of energy. This practice not only improves the energy of a space but also its safety and hygiene. I was recently listening to a Podcast by Feng Shui Master Suzee Miller, who I am studying under. In this podcast she outlined different areas of clutter in the home and how this clutter can relate to the way we’re feeling inside. Take a look at the below table and see if any of these connections resonate with you and your life.
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Entrance of home or office |
Fear of relationship |
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In closets |
Unwilling to examine emotions |
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In kitchen |
Resentment or overwhelmed by caretaking |
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Under or beside bed |
Wanting to run away |
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On desk |
Frustration, need to control |
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Corner, behind a door |
Detachment from others |
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Under furniture |
Importance of appearance |
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In the cellar |
Procrastination |
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In attic |
Living in the past |
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Garage |
Inability to actualize |
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All over |
Frustration, anger, self-loathing |
A Personal Story
About 10 years ago, I was at a point in life where I felt stuck in my career, my personal relationships and also my personal growth. My kids were little at the time and I had the perfect excuses to slip on housekeeping chores. To be honest, I was practically living in chaos! Everytime I walked into my house, I felt a sense of helplessness, despair, and anger. I was overwhelmed by the pressure of raising children, growing, and meeting the demands in my business, while trying to stay healthy, combat aging, and just get enough sleep.
In Feng Shui, we are our environment and by observing someone’s environment, we can have a good insight into the psyche of that person. My environment at the time perfectly depicted how I felt inside! Not until I started consulting with Suzee, I realized the way we live can be very detrimental to both our physical and mental health. Since then, I made it my top priority to remove clutter and keep clutter out of my house. It was A LOT of hard work but I am happy to report that when I walk into my house now I feel lighter, more peaceful, and I feel more confident in my ability in handling the demands in life in general. I am going to embarrass myself by showing you the before and after of what the inside of my front door looks like. Can you “see” the difference in how I might be feeling then and now?
Cheers to good Chi!
Feng Shui is a timeless practice that transcends cultural boundaries. As we step into the Chinese New Year, let's embrace these principles to create spaces that reflect balance, harmony, and positivity. Whether you're looking to buy, sell, or simply enhance your current home, incorporating Feng Shui can lead to a more peaceful and prosperous life. I hope these tips will help you harmonize your home with Feng Shui principles! Cheers to the Year of the Dragon and good Chi!
